Federal Government Shutdown: Survey and Certification Activities

CMS has issued a Survey and Certification letter (S&C 14-02), outlining the programs and activities that will be affected and those not affected by the Oct. 1 federal government shutdown. Those activities that are deemed essential and will continue to be performed include investigating complaints where there is an allegation of harm; enforcement actions where there is Immediate Jeopardy or harm; revisits that are necessary to prevent termination; or any situation that is regarded to be an immediate threat to life or safety.

During the shutdown, initial surveys, revisit surveys not required to prevent termination, recertification surveys, complaint surveys (except where Immediate Jeopardy is alleged) and Informal Dispute Resolution (IDRs) will not be performed. CMS plans to issue guidance on surveys completed prior to the shutdown where a statement of deficiencies has not yet been issued. Any member affected by the government shutdown and current CMS contingency plans should contact LeadingAge New York. 

Contact: Elliott Frost, efrost@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8832